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Cork, P12 KR25, Ireland
Theatre
Set within a close-knit family and community, Barndance is a warm and humorous play that looks at life in rural Ireland, where tradition and change sit uneasily side by side. The play centres on characters whose deeply held beliefs are constantly tested by their opposites: Fathers and sons, brothers and sisters, who challenge each other’s views on how life should be lived, and raise the question of whether “the old ways are best” still holds true.
Alongside these family tensions, Barndance thoughtfully explores the theme of emigration — not only those forced to leave Ireland, but also those who wished to go and never could. The story reflects on an Ireland that has changed more than it realises, a theme that makes this play both relatable and timeless.
Written by John Fraher, Barndance reflects a strong love of Irish theatre, with influences from writers such as Brian Friel and John B. Keane, while remaining an original and distinctive work. The play was first staged by Sullane Players Macroom in May 2007, marking the group’s debut production. Now, almost two decades later, Barndance returns to Briery Gap in February 2026 for a special revival, with four members of the original cast once again taking to the stage.
